Sample Preparation Officer

Bayside Group; City of Melbourne; On-site; AUD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Well known Government Testing Authority is seeking a Sample Preparation Officer for a 6-month contract near Melbourne CBD to prepare food samples for detailed analysis and to support internal and external labs to meet deadlines. The role focuses on precise sample prep, equipment upkeep and strict safety practices.

The candidate should be organised, capable of prioritising tasks, and able to work both independently and as part of a team, with strong communication skills and familiarity with

Qualifications

• Experience preparing samples for compositional and trace-element analysis.
• Ability to apply correct prep methods across different matrices.
• Strong safety awareness and adherence to containment requirements.

Responsibilities

• Prepare food samples for compositional and trace element analysis (including blending under liquid nitrogen).
• Maintain sample preparation equipment.
• Perform daily temperature checks for storage units.
• Calibrate equipment as per schedule.
• Manage receipt, distribution, storage, and disposal of samples.
• Keep electronic records of samples.
• Maintain cleanliness and organisation of the lab.
• Handle quarantine/biological containment procedures.
• Work safely according to protocols.

Skills

Sample prep accuracy

Matrices preparation

Independence

Teamwork

Communication skills

Microsoft Office

LIMS

Quarantine knowledge

Safety & APS Code

Tools

LIMS

Microsoft Office

Job description

• Well known Government Testing Authority
• 6-month contract with a view to extend
• Close to Melbourne CBD area

An exciting opportunity has become available for aSample Preparation Officer to join a well - known government organisation to prepare food samples for compositional and trace element analysis.

The successful candidate will be motivated, well organised and have a focus on delivering high quality results to clients in a timely manner. They will be able to prioritise, coordinate and prepare samples efficiently to assist the internal and external testing laboratories to meet deadlines.

Main Responsibilities:

• Prepare food samples for compositional and trace element analysis (including special techniques like blending under liquid nitrogen).
• Maintain sample preparation equipment.
• Perform daily temperature checks for storage units.
• Calibrate equipment as per schedule.
• Manage receipt, distribution, storage, and disposal of samples.
• Keep electronic records of samples.
• Maintain cleanliness and organisation of the lab.
• Handle quarantine/biological containment procedures.
• Work safely according to protocols.

Key Selection Criteria:

• Ability to prepare samples accurately and on time.
• Experience applying correct preparation methods for different matrices.
• Work independently or in a team to meet targets.
• Strong communication skills (verbal & written).
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office and preferably LIMS.
• Understanding of quarantine and biological containment requirements.
• Commitment to safety and APS Code of Conduct.

Please note that you must be an Australian Citizen to be considered for this opportunity

Closing date will be 7th October 2026.